Find a Trade Ally Contractoror other Ally Professional
Energy Trust works with trade ally contractors and other allied professionals that are part of our on-the-ground network that connects customers to incentives and services.
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Contractor Selection Tips
Choosing a contractor is a key step in making your energy efficiency or renewable energy project a success, whether you are renovating an existing home, building a new office space, or installing a solar system. Hiring a contractor unfamiliar with the requirements of your job or working with an unlicensed installer can lead to a number of problems. Fortunately, there are many resources to help you choose the right contractor for the job.
Energy Trust recommends working with a contractor from our network of licensed and insured independent trade allies. Trade allies are up-to-date on the latest Energy Trust standards, quality control requirements and incentives. They may also help you complete your cash incentive applications. Trade allies receive additional training and support that Energy Trust does not provide to nonaffiliated contractors.
Considerations when choosing a contractor:
- Be sure your contractor has the correct licenses. At a minimum, a contractor should hold an Oregon Construction Contractors Board, or CCB, license, or for Washington customers, a Washington contractor’s license. You can verify this information on the Oregon Construction Contractor’s Board website and the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.
- Check online resources to see how the contractor is rated. Angie’s List, the Oregon Construction Contractor’s Board, the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, The Better Business Bureau, and any references provided by the contractor can all be good resources.
- Review your bid and understand the work to be performed. Trust, quality and professionalism can be as important as the bid’s total cost. Consult resources created by the CCB, such as “16 ways to avoid remodeling, repair, and construction problems.” (PDF)
- Ask friends and family for recommendations. If you don’t know where to start, Energy Trust can help. We can refer you to highly qualified trade ally contractors from our list. Call 1.866.368.7878 or search our website for local trade allies matching your needs.
- Concerned about potential contractor-related scams? View a list of potential scams and tips to avoid them.
CCB
CCB stands for Construction Contractors Board, which is the licensing agency for companies involved in construction activity. Be sure to confirm that your contractor has the correct licenses. At a minimum, a contractor should hold an Oregon Construction Contractors Board license, or for Washington customers, a Washington contractor’s license. You can verify a contractor’s licensing information on the Oregon CCB website or the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.